Frequently Asked Questions

If the unit can be powered on but does not dispense food

The most likely problem is that of a stuck kibble and NOT a burnt out motor – this is unlikely since the motor uses only 6 volts. Please perform the troubleshooting functions below to resolve the issue.

Check container to ascertain that oversize kibbles or pet treats were not used. If so, dislodge item and perform test for machine performance – please see “Machine Test” function and notes on maximum kibble size in the instruction manual.

A stuck kibble may not be visible, since the kibble could be between the impeller and the “Cup Size Adjuster”. To ensure that the dispensing chute is free and clear you will first need to empty the hopper of its contents and raise the “Cup Size Adjuster” (located on the hopper’s wall adjacent to the impeller) to the highest position. For the V2R and older versions, this can be achieved by placing the flat edge of a screwdriver between the wall of the hopper and the adjuster to create a space. With your free hand, grip the bottom of the adjuster and push upwards to the highest position. For the V3 and later versions, this can be achieved by simply sliding the “Cup Size Adjuster” upward.

Next, test the feeder by pressing and holding the Forward button for five seconds to see if the impeller rotates. Once the impeller rotates release the “Forward button”.

The rotation of the impeller indicates a clear and free chute and the “Cup Size Adjuster” can be returned to a position that allows the free passage of kibbles, without changing the portion size.If the two methods above do not resolve the issue, raise the “Cup Size Adjuster” again and remove the impeller. This can be achieved by gripping the impeller located inside the hopper, with one hand, while placing the inner thumb of your free hand – on the rim of the impeller – from outside the chute and turn the impeller in a CLOCKWISE direction to remove it.

Rinse the impeller to remove sticky residue that may have accumulated and clean the area where the impeller is installed. Align the impeller properly and turn it in a counter-clockwise direction until it stops. This may take several “half turns” before it comes to a complete stop. It should be noted that forceful pressure should not be put on the impeller, beyond the stopping point.

Kibbles can fuse together if food is stored in the hopper and the feeder is not used frequently. If fusion occurs, kibbles will block the chute causing a malfunction.

Please be sure to remove kibbles from the feeder, if the feeder is used occasionally.

Check batteries to ensure that they are fresh; properly installed and in the correct sequence.

Ensure that the power switch is turned on.

Check the impeller by turning it in a counter-clockwise direction to ensure that it is secured.

Does the size of kibbles matter for portion control?

The size of kibbles is relevant to the portion being dispensed. This is why our feeder has a cup size adjuster – in addition to the direct programming for the amount desired – to regulate the amount needed. Please see our instructions for raising the “Cup Size Adjuster”.

Can you delete a previous recording or deactivate the voice recorder?

Yes, previous recorded messages can be deleted and the recorder will be silent, by pressing the “REC” button once and after screen displays the function, press the “REC” button again to stop the process. This will not only delete the previous recording, but will also deactivate the recorder.

Can the batteries be used in conjunction with the adapter?

Only the V3 and later versions have the capability of battery use in conjunction with the power adapter. All previous versions must use either batteries OR power adaptor independent of each other.

What’s the average life of the batteries?

Four new AA batteries should last approximately 6 months of continuous use. If the batteries are low in voltage or are faulty, a low battery indicator will be displayed on the screen, signaling that a change is needed.

Is there a method of preventing my pet from gaining access to additional food?

As of July 2015, our feeder are equipped with a protective chute guard that prevents the pet(s) from gaining access to the food hopper.

Should the feeder be filled to capacity when using the extended food container?

The feeder is designed to support 4.4 lbs of dry food with the use of the extended container. Amounts exceeding this weight specification, will exert immeasurable pressure on the dispensing mechanism, resulting in the premature wear of the impeller